Make a difference

Once you've formed your group, decided what you're going to do, and how you're going to do it, you're ready to get to work.

You may want start by focusing on creating change directly and using the resources of the group. In fact, some groups may decide that they only want to do these types of things. Small local actions such as these can make neighbourhoods great places to live!

Some groups may also want to think about advocating for bigger changes which will take a lot longer than the first. Either way, we’ve created a pile of resources to guide you as you prepare to change your neighbourhood.

And if you need a bit more inspiration, check out our video of Nicole Livingstone (OAM) Australian Olympian explaining why walking is important, what you can do to make your neighbourhood more vibrant and how you can to get more people out walking.

How can I make a difference?

Making your neighbourhood better for walking is about more than better footpaths and crossings or lower speed limits. It is also about building friendly streets, getting people to walk more and a whole of things you can do yourself. Find out what you can do on your own, or with the help of a few others to make your streets better for walking (see DIY street makeover).

Once you’ve done what you can yourself, it’s time to start working on some of the more difficult stuff – and you’re going to need to look outside the group to do it. (see Building support for bigger steps).

The levels of government you're most likely to encounter is local government (your council) and the State government. Working with government also includse working with bodies such as VicRoads. (see Engaging government).